How to Make Money with Photography & Travel the World in 2024; 17 Fun Ways

If you have a passion for photography and an itch to explore the world, you can combine those two desires and make money with photography while traveling.

There are so many different ways to monetize photography I can’t recommend just one, so in this article I’ll be walking through 17 different routes of how to make money with photography, particularly for the intrepid explorer.

If you have an eye for a great photograph, love to see and experience new places and burn with entrepreneurial ambition, this could be the start of an incredible journey.

KAL VISUALS | Unsplash

How to Make Money With Photography; 17 Fun & Actionable Strategies

1. Sell Prints of Your Photos Online

The best place to start is to sell prints of your photos online. Using an online platform such as Etsy or Redbubble, you can sell your images anywhere in the world, while having control over the pricing and sales of your photos.

The key to successfully selling prints of your photographs is to focus on the quality of your images. Make sure your photos are well composed, free of any distractions and showcase different parts of the world that you’ve explored.

This will give your photos a unique flair and make them more desirable for potential customers.

When it comes to pricing, it’s important not to undervalue your work yet stay competitive in the marketplace. Spend some time researching other photography prints online to get an idea of fair pricing for the quality and size of your prints.

As an added bonus, you may want to offer discounts to customers who purchase multiple prints from you.

Creating a website can help you to gain more exposure, but don’t underestimate the power of social media. Build your presence on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok and let your followers know when you post new photos to your site. Not only will this increase your brand awareness, but it can also help to drive more traffic to your online store.

Selling prints of your photos online is a great way to make money with photography while traveling the world. Take time to showcase your photos in the best light, price them fairly, and market them effectively via social media.

These steps will ensure that you can earn a steady income from your photography.

2. Sell Your Photos as Digital Downloads

Alongside selling physical prints of your work, offer them as digital downloads.

You can sell the digital download as a bonus to a physical print, set up your store so you only sell digital downloads, meaning lower overheads and a bigger profit margin or sell to stock sites who already have customers in their millions to sell to.

The easiest way to get started is to create a store on Etsy and create a zip file of all the varying print options for the buyer that they can download upon purchase.

If selling to stock sites, create accounts with Shutterstock or Dreamstime who are always looking for good quality images that people can buy for personal and commercial use.

Creating your own store is likely to be more profitable, but selling on stock sites means there is an audience waiting to buy your work.

3. Create and Sell Photo Books.

Creating and selling photo books is a great way to make money with photography while also traveling the world.

Photo books can be created quickly and easily from a selection of themed digital images.

The good news is that you don’t need to be a Photoshop wizard or a graphic designer to create beautiful photo books; there are several websites available such as blurb.com or xpress.lulu.com, that allow you to easily and quickly create your own photo book in just a few clicks.

In fact even Apple now partners with various apps to create photo books and other assets directly inside the apple photo app.

When creating a photo book, play up the storytelling aspect of it. Give it a narrative, let the images do the speaking, combine captivating photographs with witty text or insightful descriptions to captivate your audience.

The design should be kept simple and informative with an attention to detail and unique elements that will make your photo book stand out from the crowd. With the proper craftsmanship, you’ll be able to deliver a visually stunning and beautiful product to your customers.

Sell your book on your own website, on a platform such as Etsy or Amazon.

4. Sell Your Photos on Merchandise on Etsy or Redbubble.

Another great option for how to make money with photography is to turn your art into designs for products and sell them on Etsy or Redbubble.

By integrating with an app such as Printify on Etsy or creating a store on Redbubble, you can upload your photo, choose some products, set a price and let them handle the rest.

Depending on the products you chose, your photo will be printed on a variety of items such as t-shirts, phone cases, laptop and iPad covers, mugs and more. The print on demand platform will handle the printing and shipping.

When using a platform such as Printify with Etsy, you’ll pay for the cost of the product and Etsy selling fees, so your profit will be whatever you marked the product up as. On Redbubble you’ll receive anywhere from 20% – 60% of the selling price.

Selling your photos on merchandise sites is an easy and affordable way to make money with photography. It’s also fun to get regular users wearing or using items with your photos printed on them and post them on Instagram to drive more sales.

5. Become a Stock Photographer

Being a stock photographer is an excellent way to make money with photography while traveling the world.

As a stock photographer, you are able to capture photographs from different locations and then offer them for sale to businesses or other organizations who need photographs for their projects.

This type of work requires some creativity and knowledge of the best locations to capture beautiful images that can be sold to clients.

You can begin to make money with stock photography by becoming a member of the various stock photography sites available online. Once you have joined, you can upload your images and designate the license agreement that each photo will fall under.

Some sites will even allow you to set a price point for your stock photos. Depending on the popularity of your image and the content you have produced, you can earn quite a bit of money.

Be sure to do your research and select the right stock company, so you can set the right price for your photographs and stand to make the most profit.

Additionally, utilize social media maketing plaforms to market your images and increase your chances of having them bought and downloaded. This type of work is ideal for any traveler who loves photography, as it allows you to be creative and make money all at once!

6. Teach Online Photography Classes or Workshops

iphonephotographyschool.com

(Please note the discount for the above course might not be available by the time you read this)

Teaching photography online is a great way to make use of your skills and make money while you live the wanderer’s lifestyle.

With online learning becoming increasingly popular, the chances for budding photographers to teach their art are greater than ever.

You can show people how to make the most of their cameras, much like any physical classroom. Yet you can do it from a beach in Thailand, a small cafe in Paris, or anywhere else your travels take you!

One of the best ways to start teaching is to create a course website, such as a YouTube channel, Udemy or a tutorial website on a platform like Podia for example, where potential students can view your lessons.

Your classes could cover topics such as basic photography concepts, camera settings, editing and retouching, or advanced photo techniques. Just be sure to organize your lessons into achievable modules and find ways to differentiate yourself from other photographers.

Since photography classes can be time-consuming, it’s important to set a reasonable price and explain to potential students the value they can get from your personalized instruction. Don’t be afraid to set rates that are commensurate with your knowledge – you’re offering education, experience and expertise that others need.

Traveling and making money doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive! Teach photography workshops online to make use of your skills, show off your work and make some money while you travel.

7. Become an Influencer

Influencers have taken over the world of social media and their presence is only growing. By becoming an influencer, you can make money with photography in a variety of ways.

1. Create incredible reels and shorts from your images and generate ad revenue share from sites such as TikTok and YouTube
2. Use your social media presence to sell your merchandise, photo books or courses
3. Create sponsorship deals with other brands who want to get in front of your engaged audience
4. Promote other people’s products and get paid a commission for each sale
5. Run specialized co-promotions with brands showcasing your designs on their products and sell to your audience for a revenue split
6. Get free or discounted accommodation or tours for promoting or taking photos for a hotel or travel company
7. Freelance for hotels or travel companies and get paid to create a portfolio of images for their brand.

Becoming an influencer requires gaining a substantial following on a variety of social media platforms by showcasing your photography to the world.

To get started, you’ll want to create a consistently updated social media profile. Your profile should feature high-quality images of your work, as well as updates about your travels and lifestyle.

You should also engage in conversations with your followers, creating relationships with them that will help you continue to grow. As you continue to build your following, you can start looking into the various ways to monetize.

8. Sell Your Photos as Fine Art

My eighth suggestion for how to make money with photography is to sell your photos as art prints. Sites such as Society 6 or Fine Art America allow you to showcase and sell your work, letting you decide the pricing and how you make money from your photographs.

Selling photo prints through Society 6 is an excellent way for photographers to monetize their work, as the system is easy to use and the set up process is fairly straightforward.

The website allows you to customize your prints and sell them in a variety of sizes, from traditional frames to canvases, clothing, and homeware. You control the royalties, picking the percentage you would normally make on each product when someone orders it.

You also have the option to have certain products sent to your customers’ addresses within a day or two; essential for ensuring a quick turnaround if someone needs a last minute gift, for example.

Fine Art America is another great platform for photographers to make money with their work and the site’s setup impressively caters to your needs. You can upload your prints in a variety of sizes and they’ll automatically appear in your own online store, allowing customers to purchase your prints or have them printed as framed prints, mugs, clothing and much more.

You also get to decide the pricing of your prints, enabling you to make the most from your work. Furthermore, Fine Art America has a user-friendly interface, giving you the ability to edit and manage your entire shop easily.

Both of these sites give you the opportunity to turn your hobby into something far more profitable, by monetizing your art on multiple platforms.

9. Work as a Freelance Photographer.

One of the best ways to make money with photography while traveling the world is by freelancing. As a freelance photographer, you can take on a number of different short-term and long-term projects that you can complete from anywhere in the world.

Start by analyzing your specific skill set and creating a compelling profile on sites such as upwork.com or freelancer.com.

You can build up a network of contacts who hire you regularly for specific projects, or you can search for lots of different freelance photography opportunities.

Another benefit to freelancing is being able to choose projects that you find both enjoyable and financially rewarding. You can take photos of unique and beautiful locations, document events, and create high-quality, one-of-a-kind images that capture a certain moment or feeling.

Finally, by working as a freelance photographer, you can gain credibility and recognition for your work. Web-based portfolios and social media outlets allow you to showcase your skills, which can open the door to further freelance opportunities or even permanent gigs.

If you’re looking to make money with photography while exploring the world, then freelancing is an ideal choice.

10. Participate in Online Photography Competitions

Participating in online photo contests is a great way to make some money with photography while traveling the world.

It’s a fantastic route to sharpening your skills, getting recognized for your work, and perhaps even snagging some extra cash.

Submitting your photos for these contests is easy and straightforward. Simply search for photo contests across the globe, then carefully read up on the rules of each photo contest before submitting your entries.

Most contests will evaluate photography based on the technical aspects such as composition, lighting and focus, or on the creativity, message, and story the image communicates.

Once your photo is selected, you will be able to receive a monetary reward or recognition in the form of a certificate. Participating in photo contests is also a great way to make connections with local photographers, forums, and organizations.

Taking part in online photo contests will certainly bring more exposure to your work and establish your career as a photographer. However remember that success in online photo contests requires patience, persistence and commitment. Don’t give up hope if you fail your first few attempts.

Stick to your goal and keep improving your skills so that you can eventually make money with your photography while exploring the world.

11. Start a Photography Blog or Travel Blog

expertvagabond.com

Starting a photography or travel blog is a great way of monetizing your creativity while you’re traveling. You can often find work as a freelance writer by searching online job boards like Lensa, ProBlogger, or pitching companies directly.

While blogging typically has a long lead in time, due to how long it takes for your articles and posts to rank, it’s a long term, profitable strategy that is fun to create and can generate life changing income.

It’s also a fantastic way for potential customers to get to know you, your style of photography, and your travel experiences firsthand.

Here’s a few tips to get you started:

1. Choose a blogging platform: Consider which platform best suits your needs and create your blog or channel.

2. Create a lot of content: Ranking on google is dependent on there being a lot of keyword rich content on your site.

2. Develop a brand: Create a brand to attract potential customers.

3. Be consistent: Be consistent with your content, but also be sure to keep it fresh by adding new and interesting content regularly.

4. Utilize networking tools: Use networking tools like Twitter and Instagram to promote your blog or channel.

5. Reach out to people: Contact people you think might be interested in your blog or channel, as well as strategic partners such as tour companies or travel agencies.

6. Offer services: Consider offering photography services through your blog, such as editing or collaborations.

7. Partner with other creators: Reach out to similar bloggers or vloggers and explore possible collaboration opportunities.

8. Write useful content: Try to create useful and interesting content that can help your readers learn and grow.

9. Promote your blog: Master SEO and utilize different channels to promote your blog content.

10. Reach out to potential sponsors: Consider reaching out to potential sponsors who might be interested in your services or content.

11. Start small and work your way up: Do not forget to start small and keep your expectations low. As you start to get more recognition and your audience grows, you can look for more ambitious opportunities.

Starting a blog is an excellent way to not only make a living off photography, but also to share your experiences with the world.

12. Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel is a great way to use your photography to make money. You can share your expertise and experience as a photographer with the world, and earn a decent income from it.

First, you’ll need to come up with an idea of what content you’ll be sharing on your YouTube channel. Maybe it’s tutorials on how to take great photos, or discussions about photography gear and equipment, or simply showcasing your amazing photography skills from different locations around the world.

Think about what kind of viewers you’d like to reach, and create content that’ll engage them.

Create your channel by choosing a name, uploading photos or graphics that best represent you and adding a brief introduction of who you are and what your channel is about. The key is to make it interesting and memorable, and ensure that it’s in alignment with your brand.

Then your ongoing job will be to upload creative videos consistently. Be sure to do proper keyword research so searchers can find your videos and focus on engagement and watch time. The higher your watch time the more you’ll get paid.

You can start making money with your YouTube channel in various ways. You can become an affiliate partner and make commissions when viewers purchase items you have recommended.

You can also join YouTube’s Partner Program and make money for each view or click by enabling ads on your videos. You may even be able to collaborate with brands and get paid to create sponsored content.

Starting a YouTube channel is a great way to take your photography business to the next level and make money at the same time. It requires consistency and creativity, but it can be a lot of fun.

13. Turn Your Photos into Digital Art and Sell as NFT’s

Do you want to turn your photography into money-making digital artwork? Well, what about creating a non-fungible token (NFT)?

NFTs are revolutionizing the art industry and offer a great way to turn photographs into real, digital pieces of art that can be sold through digital marketplaces.

Creating an NFT is easy. All it takes is a digital platform, like OpenSea or Ethereum, to turn your photos into digital tokens. Once you have created your digital artwork, you can then list it for sale on the NFT marketplace. You can assign a unique, original price for your work that allows you to keep a large percentage of the profits.

Another benefit of selling NFTs of your photography is that you take full ownership of the artwork. As the photographer and the creator, you are the sole owner of the digital token and all the rights associated with it. You can then use this artwork to leverage other forms of marketing and promotion, such as advertising your work by sharing it on social media and other online platforms.

You can have a lot of fun with NFTs and make money with photography at the same time. Don’t forget to include a detailed description of your art, how you created it, and why it’s worth investing in. This will add value to your digital token and make it even more desirable to buyers.

14. Create Travel Journals and Calendars

One great way to combine the two passions of photography and travel is by creating travel journals and calendars.

Creating travel journals and calendars allows you to show others your love for travel in a truly unique and personal way.

Use your best photography skills, or even better, team up with photographers from each place you visit to create something totally special. Do some research on what other travel journals and calendars have been created and use this to inform your own ideas.

Put together the best images you’ve taken from that specific location and combine it with captions or even snippets of your own thoughts and reflections.

Selling journals and calendars made of travel images can be a great source of income if you put the right amount of effort into marketing your work. Create an Etsy store, sell on Amazon or promote on your social media platform.

You could even create your own store on Shopify and use a print on demand app to test the market before you start to create your own from scratch.

Creating travel journals and calendars is a great way to make money with photography while traveling the world. Think up modern and eye-catching designs, take care to use the best photography skills you have, and market your creations to reach the right people.

15. Become a Drone Photographer

Nikos Zacharoulis | Unsplash

Droning has become one of the newest and most exciting trends in the photography industry. If you’ve got a knack for the unique and an affinity for aerial shots, a career in drone photography could make all of your travel dreams come true!

Becoming a drone photographer requires a keen eye for aerial perspective and a good understanding of proper vehicle operation. But if you can master these skills, you’ll enjoy a fun and lucrative way to make money as you jet around the world.

Starting out is easy; drone photography is relatively low-cost and much of the necessary skills can be learned through online courses or hands-on experience.

Once you’ve got your drone and camera equipment, the possibilities are endless! You can take pictures of distant landscapes, busy cityscapes and bustling metropolises, all with a unique and extraordinary eye.

When marketing your craft, ensure that you emphasize your drone photography skills, the ability to capture aerial footage is highly sought after in the industry, and it can be a great way to stand out among the competition.

As you begin to establish yourself and build a solid client base, you’ll find drone photography to be a surprisingly profitable venture. So grab your drone and capture the world’s most stunning destinations from a whole new perspective!

16. Sell Your Services as an Image Editor

Do you have a knack for editing photos? Why not take advantage of it and offer your services as an image editor?

With the rise of photography as a hobby, the need for photo editors is ever present. You can offer basic services such as color correction and small fixes or go further with advanced services like retouching and compositing.

Providing editing services is a great way to make money with photography. Advertising your services to fellow travelers or local businesses can be done through social media like Instagram or by setting up a dedicated website.

You can also target magazines and newspapers who are often on the lookout for talented individuals who are able to bring photos to life with their editing skills.

By cataloging your work in an online portfolio, potential clients can see what services you offer and the quality you produce. To become successful at image editing, it’s essential to focus on learning the more advanced techniques.

With the rise of video, video editing is also becoming an in-demand service, offering you the opportunity to learn a new skill while also expanding your income potential.

17. Start an Overseas Wedding Photography Business

Focus Photography Mauritius | Unsplash

If you love to do wedding photography or even event photography, consider promoting your services as an overseas event/wedding photographer.

So many young couples love the thought of getting married abroad, plus there are a multitude of parties, conferences or other events across the globe, crying out for a professional or even an assistant photographer.

What a great way to pursue your passions, while visiting and exploring new destinations. You’ll also get to meet some amazing people along the way and will generate more work via word of mouth. (That is, if you did a great job).

How Much Can Traveling Photographers Earn?

For anyone who’s ever dreamed of roaming the world while making an income with a camera, the idea of earning money as a photographer can seem like an exciting, potential-filled road ahead.

But how much cash can aspiring photographers really make out of their talent?

The great news is that sky’s the limit; the potential to earn an excellent income through photography is an achievable goal.

By selling photos, many photographers make thousands of dollars in a single project. Of course, income is naturally affected by the photographer’s experience, location and portfolio of high-quality work, but the rewards are undeniable.

Many professional photographers make a comfortable living from their passion, and with a bit of creative hustle, you too can make a career out of shooting stunning landscapes, portraits, and other genres.

Think about it, a stunning image snapped during a once-in-a-lifetime adventure could end up adorning the cover of a travel magazine and earning you a tidy sum.

Not to mention many companies hire photographers for their ongoing projects and assignments. With the right skills and a bit of determination, you can make a living out of your passion for photography while traveling around the world.

Daniela Cuevas | Unsplash

What Type of Photos Sell Best?

The key is to find your niche, specialize in one area of photography, and be constantly improving your skills and learning new techniques.

Nature photos, urban and cityscapes, and still life shots are all popular among buyers and can help you make some real money. But if you’re feeling particularly adventurous then you may want to focus on sports and action shots, or abstract photography.

People love to see photos showcasing a unique angle or perspective. Wildlife and extreme sports photographers, who seek out remote or dangerous locations, can often command premium prices.

If you’re a beginner, focus on going to places you’re passionate about or where you can capture interesting images. Landscapes and sunsets are always popular, as are people photos that capture emotion.

Try to take shots of locals in their natural environment, you’ll be surprised how much these types of photos sell for. If you’re good at concocting stories with your images, still-life photos that tell a story are in demand.

Learning to read the market, discovering what buyers look for in a photo, and being open to creating whatever sells on the market is an important part of making money as a travel photographer.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and take photos of things that you find interesting, even if they’re not trends. People buy photos that they feel a connection to.

jamie muller | Unsplash

How to Get Started as a Professional Photographer?

If you’re dreaming of quitting your 9-to-5 and becoming a professional photographer while traveling the world, just look around you at the many people already doing it. Making money with photography isn’t as hard as you might think, you just need guidance and the right resources.

As a first step, it’s important to understand the basics of photography so you can gain the skills and experience you need. You don’t need to become a world-renowned photographer overnight, just build your portfolio and keep learning.

Take your time to research the fundamentals of exposure, lighting, composition, etc. and look for different ways to improve your craft. Don’t forget to experiment to develop your own shooting style and challenge yourself to take on different assignments.

The next step is to start marketing yourself and your work. Join relevant communities and forums, build an online portfolio, and create a website to showcase your best images and directly sell photos.

Use social media and networking to reach out to potential clients and stay up-to-date with current trends and practices. Once you’ve got a few paying clients, try offering deals or a discount to encourage their referrals, which will help you build relationships and trust in the industry.

Finally, remember that photography is a business, and you need to treat it as such. That means setting yourself up as a professional, figuring out how to price your work, and in certain circumstances having a contract.

Utilize the resources available to you, and stay focused on your goals. You’ve got this, all you need to do is take the leap and start your journey!

How to Make Money With Photography – Summary

Making money with photography while traveling the world is an exciting journey – and one that’s definitely possible. With hard work and dedication, you may find yourself living your dream before you know it.

The wonderful part is, you can make use of your artistic gifts, see beautiful places, meet interesting people, and make a living from your passion.

While it might seem the online world is overpopulated with photographers and travel bloggers right now, travel is a huge niche and with the advent of NFT’s and digital art, good creatives are only going to become more and more in demand.

You can get started with your iphone, so if you have an eye for detail and love taking great photos don’t let anything stop you!

Good luck. 🙂

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How to Make Money with Photography – FAQ’s

How profitable is being a photographer?

That really depends on your goals, interests, and the resources available to you. From stock images to freelance assignments, there are a variety of ways to make a living with your photography. Consider what makes you happy, what will work for your lifestyle, and how you can best monetize that.

How can I find freelance assignments?

Register with freelance sites such as upwork.com, fiverr.com or freelancer.com. Create an engaging profile and search for jobs that suit you and your skill set. Then do amazing work and build up your 5 star reviews to command higher prices and start to receive direct invites to jobs.

What equipment do I need to become a traveling photographer?

While it depends on the type of photography you focus on, a good camera and a few lenses will get you far. Investing in a laptop and editing software is also recommended so that you can work on your images while you’re on the road. See my best camera for travel bloggers’ post for some tips.

How do I showcase my photos online?

Start by creating a simple website or online portfolio. You can also use platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to spread the word about your work. Don’t forget to include contact information and a few opportunities for potential clients to get in touch with you.

Which kinds of photography do people pay the most for?

People are often willing to pay a premium for certain types of photography, with commercial photography, wedding photography, and portrait photography being among the most lucrative. Commercial photographers, including those specializing in product photography and real estate photography, are in high demand due to their ability to create professional photos that enhance brand images. Wedding photographers and portrait photographers also earn significantly, as they provide a personal service that captures crucial life moments. Fine art photography is another area where photographers can earn well, especially if they participate in art fairs and local art shows, selling their work as canvas prints or digital products.

Is photography a good career?

Photography can be a highly rewarding career for those who are passionate about it. As a photographer, you have the opportunity to turn your photography passion into a profession. Whether it’s through shooting portraits, landscape photography, or even becoming a photography tour guide, the possibilities are endless. However, success in this field often requires a strong portfolio, a high quality camera, and skills in photo editing. Established photographers often have diversified income streams, including photo shoots, selling prints, and providing photography tours. Additionally, photographers who are adept in commercial photography, including real estate photography, can find numerous photography jobs in the market.

What app pays you to take pictures?

Several apps offer photographers the chance to earn money by taking amazing photos. These include stock photo apps and platforms that allow photographers to sell digital products. Some apps are geared towards specific niches, such as real estate photography, where real estate photographers can sell their sample images. Other general platforms provide an online marketplace for selling photographs to a broader audience. It’s important for photographers to provide high quality photos to stand out in these competitive marketplaces.

How can photographers increase their earnings through photography contests?

Photographers can increase their earnings by choosing to enter photography competitions and photography contests, such as those organized by National Geographic. Winning or even participating in these contests not only offers monetary prizes but also enhances a photographer’s reputation. Photography contests provide exposure and can lead to lucrative opportunities in areas like travel photography or landscape photography.

What are some effective ways for photographers to sell their work?

Photographers can effectively sell their work by leveraging print on demand services to sell canvas prints and fine art photography. Online marketplaces like Etsy and Redbubble are great platforms for photographers to sell their work. Additionally, setting up booths at art fairs and local art shows can also be profitable. For those specializing in event photography, commercial photography, or portrait photography, creating a strong portfolio and networking with potential clients is key.

What role does photo editing play in professional photography?

Photo editing is crucial in professional photography as it enhances the quality of the final image. Whether it’s landscape photographers, portrait photographers, or commercial photographers, all benefit from the ability to edit photos to produce high quality images. Photo editing allows for the correction of lighting, color, and composition issues, and can add a creative touch to the amazing photos. For those involved in real estate photography or product photography, photo editing can help in highlighting key features of the subject, making the images more appealing to potential buyers.